How to Set Up an Original Mora Clock Mechanism to Run Properly with Weights and a Pendulum

Swedish Antique Mora Clock set up and regulation

An original Mora clock is a beautifully simple mechanical system. It does not use batteries or electricity. It runs entirely on gravity (weights) and time regulation (pendulum swing).

If you’ve never set one up before, don’t worry. Once you understand the basics, it’s surprisingly logical.

Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you set up an original Mora clock mechanism correctly and safely.

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1. Understanding How a Mora Clock Works (In Simple Terms)

Before touching anything, it helps to understand the three key parts:

1. The Weights

The weights hang inside the case. Gravity pulls them downward.As they descend slowly, they power the clock.

2. The Pendulum

The pendulum swings back and forth.This swing controls the speed of the clock.

3. The Escapement

This is the small mechanism that goes “tick-tock.”It releases the gear train in tiny controlled steps.

If the pendulum swings evenly and the clock is level, the mechanism will run correctly.

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2. Positioning the Clock Correctly

This is the most important step.

✔ Place the clock on a solid, level floor

Uneven flooring will stop the pendulum from swinging properly.

✔ Make sure the clock case stands straight

Use a small spirit level if needed.If the case leans forward, backward, or sideways, the escapement will not engage evenly.

If the clock is slightly out of level, you can:

• Adjust the feet (if fitted)

• Use thin wooden shims under the base

A Mora clock must be stable before you attach the pendulum.

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3. Installing the Movement (If Removed)

If the movement has been removed from the case:

1. Carefully place it back onto its seat board inside the hood.

2. Ensure it sits square and does not rock.

3. Secure it with the original brackets or screws.

Never force it into place. These mechanisms are often 200+ years old and delicate.

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4. Attaching the Pendulum

The pendulum usually hangs on a small hook or suspension spring at the back of the movement.

To attach:

1. Locate the thin suspension strip.

2. Gently hook the pendulum leader onto it.

3. Ensure it hangs freely without touching the case.

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The pendulum must:

• Swing freely

• Not brush against the backboard

• Not hit the weights

If it touches anything, the clock will stop.

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5. Hanging the Weights

Most original Mora clocks are either:

• Single weight (time only)

• Two weights (time and strike)

To install:

1. Thread the cord or chain properly over the pulley wheel.

2. Attach the weight securely to the hook.

3. Make sure the cord sits correctly in its groove.

Never let the weight drop freely — this can damage the movement.

Weights should hang straight and not touch the pendulum.

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6. Starting the Clock

Once everything is in place:

1. Gently move the pendulum to one side.

2. Release it softly.

3. Listen carefully.

You should hear a steady:

Tick… Tock… Tick… Tock…

If it sounds uneven (tick-tock… tick… tock-tick), the clock is not in beat.

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7. Adjusting the Beat (Very Important)

A Mora Clock must be “in beat” to run properly.

If the ticking is uneven:

• Slightly adjust the case position left or right.

• You are not adjusting the pendulum — you are adjusting the clock body.

Keep adjusting gently until the tick and tock sound perfectly even.

When correct, the pendulum swing will look symmetrical.

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8. Setting the Time

To set the time:

• Move the minute hand clockwise only.

• Pause at each hour if the clock strikes.

• Let it finish striking before continuing.

Never force the hands backwards unless you know the mechanism allows it.

10. Common Problems and Simple Causes

Problem	Likely Cause
Clock stops after a few minutes	Not level
No ticking	Pendulum not engaging escapement
Stops at same time daily	Weight hitting case
Runs too fast	Pendulum too short
Runs too slow	Pendulum too long

Most issues are positioning — not mechanical failure.

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11. When Not to Interfere

If you notice:

• Frayed cords

• Missing suspension spring

• Broken escapement teeth

• Grinding sounds

Stop immediately and consult a clock specialist.

Original Mora movements are hand-made and irreplaceable.

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Why Proper Setup Matters

An original Mora clock is a gravity-driven precision instrument, often dating from the late 18th or early 19th century in Mora, Sweden.

When correctly set up:

• It will run for 7–8 days on a full wind

• It will keep surprisingly accurate time

• It will operate quietly and rhythmically

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When incorrectly set:

• It will stop frequently

• It will wear prematurely

• It may suffer avoidable damage

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